Nigeria Federal Secretariat, Abuja

Workers at the Federal Secretariat, Abuja, have urged the Federal Government to settle the accumulated electricity bills, to enable them to perform their duties effectively.

Some workers who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent on condition of anonymity, said that Phases I, II and III had been without power supply for over three weeks.

One of the respondents described that the light situation as “very worrisome’’.

“We heard that we have been cut off from electricity supply because of accumulated unpaid bills by various establishments.

“We were told that the government is owing a huge sum of money to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.

“The situation is really affecting the way and manner workers come to work. I can tell you boldly that workers’ productivity is zero as I am speaking with you right now.

“Most of the workers no longer come to work as usual and those who could make it to the office only come to mark attendance.

“The worst part of this is that those who come to work are seen roaming around, sitting outside or standing in groups discussing, as if they came for an interview. This is a sorry sight for the country.”

He called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps in restoring dignity to the Federal Secretariat.

Mrs Ekanem: Head of Service of the Federation

A female staff described the electricity situation at the secretariat was “very annoying”.

“Can you imagine, coming to work and ready to do your daily routine at the office but you cannot, due to power outage.

“And if you have to do a write up, then you must have your rechargeable lamp with you or a touch light.

“This is very sad. We cannot continue to work like this; the office is hot and dark. Government must please come to our aid,”she said.

Another staff described the lack of electricity in the Federal Secretariat as a shameful situation.

“The Federal Secretariat, especially Phase I, is a place that houses eight ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with very important ministries and parastals.

“How can there be power outage for the past three weeks now even going to the fourth week in the Federal Capital, without any solution.

“It is unfair; how do government expect workers to work or give account of their daily productivity.

“Thank God that they have been able to provide a separate generator to power the lift and pump water to the various floors. Honestly, it has not been easy for workers, ” he said.

He urged government to expedite action in resolving the issue of electricity supply at the Federal Secretariat. (NAN)